Be a Blood Donor!

Blood donors in Sweden receive a text when their blood is used. To encourage more young people to donate blood, Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, sends a text to donors when their blood has been dispensed to someone in need. A common issue with blood donation, along with other types of charitable donations, is that if a donor doesn’t know the recipient, it’s harder to convince them that donating is beneficial. But with this system, which started in 2012, potential donors in Sweden have proof that their contribution is going to good use.

Pretty good idea. I used to donate blood on a regular basis until I started having lung issues, and I can’t do that anymore. I’m a universal donor, too: O-

I once asked how long donated blood lasts. 42 days. And your pint could help up to 3 people. If you’re in good health you can donate every 56 days.

Even if you’re not a universal donor, consider giving blood. Especially around the holidays. I meant to do this post before Christmas, but just didn’t get around to it. The initial needle poke is a very minor thing, at least it was for me. You just kick back in the recliner chair and listen to music and pump that little ball they put in your hand. Then you get snacks! And maybe a t-shirt! You meet a nice bunch of people too.

And you DO save lives…